SCOTLAND’s deputy First Minister visited Stirling last week to praise the council’s digital learning drive.

Deputy First Minister John Swinney visited Stirling High School last Wednesday, February 22 following Stirling Council’s rollout of Chromebooks to every secondary school pupil.

The successful two-year pilot of the initiative took place before its introduction for all S1s in the area at the start of the 2018-19 session.

The scheme is part of the council’s digital learning drive which aims to equip Stirling’s young people with the skills to thrive and succeed in an increasingly digital workplace and society.

Mr Swinney, the education secretary, said: “Technology increasingly dominates our everyday lives and can play a significant role in supporting learning. Introducing it in a positive manner is vital in helping young people prepare for their lives beyond school.

“Tackling inequality is key if we are to close the poverty related attainment gap. Stirling High School’s approach ensures all pupils have access to technology, enhancing their digital learning opportunities and giving them the skills and confidence to help them thrive in other aspects of their lives.”

Paul Cassidy, headteacher at Stirling High School, said: “With the support of Stirling Council, Stirling High School is at the forefront of developing young people’s digital skills.

“Our use of Chromebooks is now embedded as part of everyday learning and teaching and our young people are engaged and leading their learning through digital tools.

“Staff here at Stirling High School are highly skilled in ensuring that our young people are equipped with the skills and knowledge required to be successful citizens of the 21st century.”